MDMK chief Vaiko, supporters detained for anti-Rajapaksa protest

NEW DELHI: MDMK chief Vaiko and his supporters were today detained when they tried to march towards the Prime Minister's residence in protest against the visit of Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa to the country.

Vaiko and scores of his supporters have been protesting at Jantar Mantar here since morning demanding that India close down the Sri Lankan High Commission in the capital.

"We will not forgive the Manmohan Singh government for supporting Sri Lanka in its war against Tamils," Vaiko said, addressing his supporters.

Later, Vaiko along with his cadre tried marching towards the residence of Prime Minister in Race Course Road but were stopped near Parliament Street Police Station.

However, when Vaiko tried to break the barricade, he was detained.

At the protest, the MDMK cadre shouted slogans against Rajapaksa's visit and burnt his effigy.

The Sri Lankan President, accompanied by his wife Shiranthi Rajpaksa and a 70-member delegation, arrived at the the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya early this morning for pilgrimage.

He would offer prayers at the famous hill shrine of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala tomorrow.